FACTORS INFLUENCING STUDENTS’ CHOICE OF ISLAMIC STUDIES IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ILORIN WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

The purpose of the study was to find out what factors influence students' decisions to study Islamic studies in secondary schools in Ilorin, Kwara State. The researchers choose to use the descriptive research method. A questionnaire was utilised to gather data. The study's population consisted of 20 students who were picked from 10 schools using the simple random selection technique. The validity of the instrument was determined by experts in Islamic Studies, measurement, and evaluation. The gathered data was analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage were employed to present the demographic data of the respondents, answer research question one and ANOVA was also employed to address the research hypotheses that were formulated. The study findings indicate that parental influence, teachers' attitude, teaching techniques, and the use of technology (instructional media) are the elements that determine students' selection of Islamic studies in secondary schools in Ilorin. The study also found that gender had no impact on students' views of the factors that drive their choice of Islamic studies. Consistent with the findings of the study, parents were recommended to actively promote and inspire their children to opt for Islamic education. Teachers are strongly encouraged to continue using effective teaching methods and providing support to their pupils, while also having a positive and friendly relationship with them.